Liverpool 4-2 Bournemouth: Fortunate Slot Nearly Cost Reds Victory with Poor Decision

Liverpool Fans Criticise Arne Slot for Costly Substitution in 4-2 Win Over Bournemouth

Despite Liverpool securing a 4-2 win against Bournemouth in their Premier League opener, many fans were left frustrated by a key decision made by manager Arne Slot. Hugo Ekitike gave the Reds an early lead on his league debut, just moments after Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo was subjected to racist abuse from the crowd.

Ekitike then assisted Cody Gakpo for Liverpool’s second, but Semenyo responded in powerful fashion, scoring twice to level the game and nearly earning a point for the visitors. Late goals from Federico Chiesa and Mohamed Salah eventually secured the win, but it was a particular substitution that left supporters questioning Slot’s judgment.

Supporters Confused by Endo Substitution

With Liverpool leading 2-0 just before the hour mark, Slot made a double substitution—bringing on Andy Robertson for Milos Kerkez and Wataru Endo for Jeremie Frimpong. It was the second change that drew criticism, as Endo, a central defensive midfielder, was deployed at right-back, leaving him out of position.

Bournemouth quickly capitalized, exploiting that side of the pitch. Endo was caught out of position as Semenyo tapped in his first goal and was also absent from a counter-attack that led to the equalizer.

The decision became a hot topic on social media. One fan wrote: “Still can’t understand the logic behind taking Frimpong off, especially for Endo.” Another called it “idiotic,” while others demanded an explanation for why Endo was played at right-back instead of his usual midfield role.

Some supporters even suggested Slot was overthinking his tactics, comparing him to Pep Guardiola’s infamous tendency to complicate crucial decisions: “Has Slot already hit the Pep overthinking phase? Why is Endo at right back?”

Chiesa’s Impact Redeems Slot

Though the Endo change almost cost Liverpool the win, another substitution paid off. Federico Chiesa came on for Florian Wirtz and scored the crucial goal to make it 3-2. Initially, even Jamie Carragher questioned the decision on commentary—but Chiesa’s performance silenced doubters, delivering his best moment yet in a Liverpool shirt.